Four big fireworks shows scheduled next week in Butler County

More than 100,000 people are expected to make their way to Cooper's Lake Campground along Interstate 79 in Butler County next week for what’s being billed as a series of spectacular fireworks displays.

"It's just the largest fireworks show this region has ever seen," said Jack Cohen with Butler County Tourism.

The shows are being put on as part of the Pyrotechnics Guild International's "2013 Boom & a Blast" convention where industry experts can learn about building pyrotechnics and refresh their memories with sessions covering safety and regulations.

"This is about artistry in the sky -- the sky is a black canvas," said Dan Creagan of Nebraska, president of PGI. "The plans for this fireworks display here have been in the making for four years."

The event is expected to bring up to a $5 million economic boost to the area. But traffic could also be a problem. Construction at the interchange where Interstate 79 meets Route 422 is complicating things. If possible, drivers are being asked to use Route 19 to get to 422 and approach Currie Road from the west to get into the campground.

"And the cars coming in will come right up Currie Road and into the parking lot," Cohen said.

But in directions listed on PGI’s website, convention goers are being directed from Route 19 onto Hunt Road and other country roads to reach a different entrance. The roads are narrow and at times it can be difficult for two vehicles to pass.

Event organizers say they’re not expecting problems, but acknowledge there could be significant delays when the shows are over and everyone goes to leave at once.

"Because we’ll have 17,000 cars parked here that might take a couple of hours," Cohen said.

Sheriff’s deputies will be stationed to help direct traffic. Also, PennDOT is asking drivers not to stop along the interstate to watch fireworks. State police will be patrolling the area.

The fireworks displays are scheduled for Aug. 11, 13, 14 and 16 and should start around 8:30 p.m. All shows depend on the weather. Tickets are $42 per car at the gate or can be purchased in advance through the organization’s website: www.pgi.org.

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